As the colder months approach, it’s essential to properly winterize your hot tub to protect it from freezing temperatures and keep it in great condition for the next season. Whether you’re planning to shut it down for the winter or enjoy warm soaks throughout the chilly season, here’s a guide on how to winterize your hot tub and ensure it stays in tip-top shape.
1. Thoroughly Clean Your Hot Tub
Before winter sets in, start by giving your hot tub a deep clean. Drain the water completely and scrub the shell with a non-abrasive cleaner. Don’t forget to clean the filters thoroughly as well. This step is crucial for preventing dirt and debris from building up during the winter months.
2. Drain the Water
If you’re not planning to use your hot tub during the winter, you’ll need to drain it completely to prevent the water from freezing. Frozen water can cause serious damage to the plumbing and shell of your hot tub. Use a sump pump or the tub’s drain valve to remove all water from the basin. Don’t forget to drain the water from the pipes and the blower to ensure no water is left behind.
3. Remove and Store Filters
After cleaning the filters, remove them from the hot tub and store them in a dry place. Keeping them out of the moisture will prevent damage and ensure they’re ready to use when you reopen your hot tub.
4. Protect the Plumbing
To fully winterize your hot tub, it’s important to blow out the remaining water from the plumbing system. You can use a wet/dry vacuum to do this. Focus on the jets, pipes, and any other parts where water might be hiding. This step prevents the risk of freezing water causing damage to your pipes.
5. Cover It Up
A high-quality, well-insulated hot tub cover is essential for winterizing your hot tub. Even if you plan to use it during the winter, a sturdy cover helps keep debris out and retains heat, making it more energy efficient. If you’re shutting down your hot tub for the season, a cover will protect it from snow, ice, and cold weather conditions.
6. Add an Extra Layer of Protection
For those especially cold winters, consider adding a thermal blanket or floating cover inside the hot tub to provide an extra layer of insulation. This step is especially useful if you plan on keeping the hot tub running during the winter.
Bonus: Keep Your Hot Tub Running in Winter
If you want to enjoy your hot tub during the winter, there’s no need to shut it down! Just be sure to:
• Keep the water temperature steady, around 100°F to 104°F.
• Regularly check the water chemistry, as winter use can still affect water balance.
• Inspect your cover for any wear and tear that might allow heat to escape.
By following these steps on how to winterize your hot tub, you’ll protect your investment and ensure it’s ready for use when the warmer months roll around. Whether you’re shutting it down for winter or using it to stay warm, proper winterization is key to keeping your hot tub in great condition.
The Backyard Source has all the accessories and products you need to winterize your hot tub. From insulated covers to cleaning supplies, we’re here to help you protect your hot tub all season long.
